Alena Fiala, A Chatham-Kent Athlete Who Came baCK

Chatham-Kent sends athletes across Ontario, Canada, and the globe each year to compete athletically. Sponsored by baCK to Chatham-Kent, we’ll be featuring local athletes who have left Chatham-Kent, and are now baCK, living, working, and staying connected to our own vibrant sports community in CK.

This week, we feature Blenheim’s Alena Fiala. Fiala spent played a successful four year NCAA women’s hockey career at Finlandia University.

Fiala is now baCK living and working in Chatham-Kent, as she was hired by the Chatham-Kent Police Service.

Here are Alena’s responses to our baCK to Chatham-Kent athletes interview:

1. Where did you grow up?

Blenheim

2. What is your favourite Chatham-Kent pastime?

Playing different sports like hockey, ball hockey, soccer and golf.

3. What did you do after high school?

After high school I moved to Alberta to play at the Banff Hockey Academy for a season. After that I went to Finlandia University in Michigan for four years and played for the women’s hockey team. I majored in Criminal Justice and minored in American History. While at Finlandia I also played two seasons with the women’s soccer team and became the Student Senate President.

4. What are you doing now?

Since moving back to Chatham-Kent I’ve been hired by the Chatham-Kent Police Service and I am looking forward to my career.

5. What has made you happiest, or been the best surprise about moving baCK to Chatham-Kent?

I love being back home, being closer to friends and family and I’m happy to be starting my career.

6. What would you tell someone who is considering living in Chatham-Kent?

I would tell them that what makes Chatham-Kent special is the community atmosphere, support and the people. This is demonstrated through the different events that are held in our community and how much local support that is received. For example, I participated in the BYC Survivor Challenge this past summer in Blenheim, and I loved seeing how much community sponsorship and involvement with the event that there was. Also another great event is the Polar Plunge that I recently participated in with other officers from the Chatham-Kent Police Service. There were lots of people who not only jumped, but also donated and came out to support the event.

7. Why did you choose to move baCK to Chatham-Kent?

I always planned on moving back to Chatham-Kent since it is my home. I’ve been lucky enough to move away and have other places feel like home, but this community is one that I always plan on living in and being a part of.

8. Describe your current sports involvement?

My current involvements are continuing to play ball hockey/hockey in leagues and tournaments. I also started CrossFit since moving back and just recently joined Chatham CrossFit. I plan on getting more involved with coaching hockey and soccer, and volunteering in community events throughout the year.